Catalysing Change: A Case Study of NDLI Club as Outreach Model for Education Access in NE India

Abstract

Amidst the ever-evolving landscape of education, digital libraries have emerged as indispensable resources for democratizing knowledge. The National Digital Library of India (NDLI) stands as a testament to this evolution, offering a vast repository of educational content to learners nationwide. Comprising over 100 million pieces of content, NDLI represents India's commitment to accessible education. This paper explores the strategic role of the NDLI Club initiative, launched in 2021, in fostering education accessibility, particularly in the Northeast region. Leveraging the framework laid out in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, NDLI Clubs serve as innovative platforms for activity-based learning, aligning with the educational objectives outlined in the policy. This paper delves into the spatial distribution and contextualization of NDLI Clubs, with a particular focus on the unique dynamics of Northeast India. As of March 31, 2024, 5,505 institutions have embraced NDLI Clubs, engaging 15.4 lakhs of members nationwide. Notably, Northeast India presents distinctive trends, shedding light on the crucial role of government colleges in driving NDLI Club engagement. The conclusion underscores the significance of tailored strategies and regional nuances in educational initiatives, proposing a roadmap for expansion, engagement, and advocacy to democratize education across India's diverse landscape, with specific attention to the northeastern states. This study offers critical insights into the NDLI Club's evolution, providing a blueprint for its continued growth and impact, particularly in addressing the educational disparities prevalent in the Northeast region.